Chest congestion remedies

Chest congestion is a fairly common medical condition which usually affects all those who suffer from flu, common cold and cough. This medical condition is commonly accompanied by certain other types of symptoms such as wheezing, blocked nose and breathing difficulties. It causes plenty of discomfort and needs to be cured as soon as possible because it may lead to bacterial infections, bronchitis and asthma. Chest congestion may be treated by a large number of different types of medicaments but it is always the best option to treat it by using simple, home remedies. Simple home remedies can be found in any kitchen and they are very efficient in eliminating the excessive amounts of mucus from the respiratory tract. Chest congestion is triggered by excessive amounts of mucus in the respiratory tracts which get produced during the aforementioned illnesses.

Home Remedies

Proper hydration is of utmost importance. Herbal tea, juices and water are very efficient in thinning out the mucus which gets accumulated in the nasal passages and the chest. Chicken soup is also one of the best home remedies for all those who suffer from chest congestion and sinus congestion because it lessens the thickness of mucus and reduces the inflammatory conditions which affect the breathing passages. Duration and severity of chest congestion may be reduced by taking vitamin C, Echinacea, zinc or other sorts of supplements. One can also use a neti pot rinse, a saline nasal spray or a solution made from a glass of water and a teaspoon of salt, in order to flush out the mucus in the nasal passages and the chest. Breathing in steam from a hot shower or a bowl of hot water or soup is of great help when it comes to reducing the irritations and inflammatory conditions and moistening the airways.

Humidity plays a big role in getting rid of chest congestion so it is highly recommended to use a humidifier, especially during the night. Another potent herbal remedy involves topical application of eucalyptus oil or olive oil to the throat and the chest. The areas need to be covered with something warm, as well. Similar solution to the problem involves the usage of hot packs which can be made from roasted cloves, carom seeds or fenugreek seeds. The packs need to be placed on the chest for only a couple of seconds. Turmeric and ginger root are also potent home remedies for chest congestion.